The Luv Kush Ramleela Committee in Delhi has removed actress Poonam Pandey from the role of Mandodari following protests by the VHP and BJP, citing concerns over “public sentiments.” A steering-committee meeting led to the decision, and she was formally informed in writing. Originally, Pandey had been cast opposite Arya Babbar (as Ravana) in the UNESCO-recognized Ramleela at Red Fort. Critics, including BJP’s Praveen Shankar Kapoor and VHP’s Surendra Gupta, had urged her replacement on grounds of her past public image. (PC: The Hindu)

Actor Vikrant Massey has won the National Award for Best Actor at the 71st National Film Awards for his role in 12th Fail. The film, directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, tells the inspiring story of Manoj Kumar Sharma, who overcomes hardships to become an IPS officer. Massey’s natural performance, filled with honesty and emotion, has been praised by critics and fans. The award marks a milestone in his career, highlighting his rise from television to leading cinema roles. Industry colleagues and fans congratulated him warmly. Massey will next play spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in the biopic White. (PC: X)

Shah Rukh Khan made history at the 71st National Film Awards 2025, receiving his first-ever Best Actor honor for his performance in Jawan. President Droupadi Murmu presented the award at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, during a grand ceremony. SRK shared the honor with Vikrant Massey for his role in 12th Fail. The crowd erupted as Khan's name was announced, witnessing the King of Bollywood gracefully accept his Rajat Kamal medal. In Jawan, he portrayed dual roles of army officer Vikram Rathore and his son Azaad. Despite his legendary career, this marks his debut National Award in the Best Actor category. Each winner receives Rs 1 lakh cash prize.

Celebrated Assamese singer and musician Zubeen Garg tragically died at age 52 in Singapore following a scuba diving accident. The beloved artist was scheduled to perform at the ongoing Northeast Festival when the unfortunate incident occurred. His final farewell was marked by a touching scene as his four dogs Iko, Diya, Rambo, and Maya bid goodbye, demonstrating the profound bond they shared with their owner. The presence of his canine companions at the farewell reflected Zubeen's deep love for animals and the close-knit family relationship he maintained with them. The music industry and fans across Northeast India mourn the loss of this iconic performer whose sudden death has left an irreplaceable void in regional music.

Bollywood actors Katrina Kaif (42) and Vicky Kaushal (37) announced their first pregnancy on September 23. The couple shared a picture on Instagram, showing Katrina cradling her baby bump. They wrote, “On our way to start the best chapter of our lives with hearts full of joy and gratitude.” Fans and celebrities flooded the post with wishes. Varun Dhawan said, “My heart is full.” Fans commented, “Chota Kat ya Vicky aa raha hai” and “Be happy Katu, u deserve it.” Katrina and Vicky married in 2021 at Six Senses Resort, Rajasthan, and have never acted together in a movie. (PC: Instagram)

Bollywood actor Jacqueline Fernandez has approached the Supreme Court seeking relief in a Rs 215-crore money laundering case involving conman Sukesh Chandrasekhar. The petition challenges Delhi High Court's July 3 decision refusing to cancel the ED's FIR. Justices Dipankar Datta and Augustine George Masih will hear her case Monday. The ED named Fernandez as co-accused, alleging she received Rs 7-crore worth of gifts including jewelry, clothes, and vehicles from Chandrasekhar despite knowing his criminal background. The agency claims she deleted phone data after his arrest and initially concealed financial transactions. Fernandez vehemently denies all allegations, maintaining she had no knowledge of Chandrasekhar's criminal history. The High Court ruled only trial court can determine actual guilt. (PC: Instagram)

Anuparna Roy made history at Venice Film Festival, becoming the first Indian director to win the Orizzonti Award for debut film "Songs of Forgotten Trees." The category specifically celebrates new voices in independent world cinema. Roy's emotional acceptance speech, marked by trembling joy and tears, reflected the magnitude of her achievement. Her triumph carries special significance given her grassroots origins in a tribal village in West Bengal's Purulia district, contrasting sharply with Venice's glamorous setting. The victory represents a rare breakthrough for women from her background in international cinema. Roy's journey from a nondescript rural village to prestigious European film festival recognition demonstrates the transformative power of independent filmmaking and diverse storytelling voices. (PC: BBC)

Vyjayanthi Movies has officially confirmed that Deepika Padukone will not be a part of the Kalki 2898 AD sequel. In a public statement dated September 18, 2025, the production house said that despite the long journey of making the first film, they could not “find a partnership” satisfactory to both parties. Reports suggest her role was reduced to a cameo in the sequel, prompting her decision to part ways. While rumours swirl about demands over fees, work hours, and crew accommodations, no official confirmation has been given. Deepika’s exit comes amid her growing film slate, including her ongoing project King with Shah Rukh Khan. 

Legendary Assamese singer Zubeen Garg has passed away at the age of 52 following a tragic scuba diving accident in Singapore. The artist, who had travelled to Singapore to participate in the North East Festival starting today, reportedly fell into the sea during a recreational dive and lost consciousness. He was immediately rescued by Singapore police and rushed to a local hospital, where he was placed in intensive care. Despite intensive medical treatment, doctors declared him dead. Reports indicate he suffered a seizure following an epileptic fit and received stitches on his head. The cultural icon's sudden demise has shocked fans across Northeast India and beyond.

Vyjayanthi Movies has announced that Deepika Padukone will not return for the sequel of Kalki 2898 AD. The production house shared a statement on Twitter, hinting at issues of commitment. They wrote that despite the journey of the first film, a true partnership could not be formed, and a project like Kalki 2898 AD needed full dedication. Deepika played a key role alongside Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, and Disha Patani in the first film. Fans reacted with shock and disappointment online, while some suggested alternative actresses. Earlier, Deepika also walked out of Prabhas’ upcoming film Spirit.